Director of Schools, Barry Smith, Releases Statement Regarding Tuesday’s Soccer Game Controversy

August 23, 2017

Following a Smith County High School vs. Mt. Juliet Christian Academy soccer game on Tuesday afternoon, the Lebanon Democrat published an about the game entitled, “MJCA coach pulls team from field with storm approaching.” Click HERE to view article.

Smith County Director of Schools, Barry Smith, released the following statement regarding the article on Wednesday afternoon:

The Smith County Board of Education is committed first and foremost to student safety. I have investigated the incident involving the soccer game last night with Mt. Juliet Christian. After speaking with the principal and athletic director, I stand behind my coaches and administration. The game administrator and TSSAA officials were watching the weather closely. TSSAA protocol was followed at all times. At the time the MJCA coach removed his team from the match, the athletic director asked the head official if he (the official) was requesting a weather delay. The official replied, “No,” and to continue the game.

I expect our coaches and administration to always keep safety a first priority and will always err on the side of caution in situations like this following the guidelines set forth by the TSSAA. In regard to the report from the Lebanon Democrat, I have been given conflicting information. The football team did practice, and their practice was not cancelled due to weather. We are unaware of two deputies that were at the game. To our knowledge, there was only one, the School Resource Officer (“SRO”). The SRO that was present stated that he did not request a game delay or cancellation. According to our administration and SRO, the MJCA team and fans left the complex without incident. In addition, we appreciate the media who chose to get statements from both parties in the investigation before reporting the incident.”